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How To Style Cargos
An essential trouser for your casual wardrobe, designer cargo pants for women are timeless, versatile and effortless to style. In this guide, our experts share the latest advice on what to wear with cargos, with tips and tricks for styling cargos for every season.
What are cargos?
The perfect trousers for a utilitarian-chic look with a laid-back feel, cargo trousers are a must-have addition to your casual wardrobe. Bringing a stylish twist to this traditionally practical trouser, women’s cargo pants typically feature large utility pockets and a loose fit, however they now come in a range of fits to suit every style. With a relaxed, lightweight design, cargos are perfect for transitional styling and casual spring/ summer ensembles.
What are cargos made from?
Women’s designer cargos are made from quality, durable materials with plenty of breathability such as cotton and canvas, and typically come in a range of stylish colours and hues for mix-and-match styling and easy-going, everyday wear.
Women’s cargo trousers at Trilogy
Black cargos
Super-versatile, a black cargo can be styled tonally with knitwear and jackets in charcoal and grey shades, or muted shades such as khaki or steel blue. For a casual, off-duty ensemble, style a black cargo with combat boots for instant impact. Women’s black cargo pants are also easily dressed up for evening plans; pair a sleek bodysuit with black cargos for instant luxe, or opt for a coated cargo for elevated occasion wear.
Navy cargos
Navy is a great casual option, and can be styled with anything from a classic white shirt to a cashmere vest and trainers. Alternatively, a denim cargo in a classic blue wash can be dressed up or down with a heel and blouse or shirt and trainers. For a smart casual look, style navy cargos with heeled sandals and an oversized blazer for effortless, sophisticated chic.
Green cargos
A green cargo pant is another great option for casual occasions, and can be styled simply with a white tee or a cosy roll neck jumper, with a box-fresh white trainer. For a utilitarian-inspired, urban look, style green cargos with a cropped bomber jacket for a contemporary take on this practical trouser.
Khaki cargos
Khaki or green cargos are the most classic when it comes to the utilitarian trend, and are versatile for everyday styling. For a day out and about, style with a crew neck jumper and jacket in muted colours. Alternatively, add an unexpected pop of colour by styling with contrasted blue shades, or dress up slightly with a crisp shirt and heel. For elevated street style with a contemporary edge, style khaki trousers with ankle boots and a racer tank.
Beige cargos
Beige cargos are effortless to style with comfy sweats. For a contemporary pop of colour, style a beige cargo trouser with a bright knit in a stripe pattern, or opt for a block colour for instant impact. Finish the outfit with a sleek wool overcoat in cream or beige for a luxury look. Style beige cargos with a sleek black cami or bodysuit and heels for a chic evening ensemble.
Grey cargos
Style grey cargo trousers with a casual shirt or knit in a khaki or tonal grey tank, for a casual but polished finish. Pair with a ballet flat or loafer to add a smart edge. For elevated evening luxe, style grey cargos with a black corset-style top and heels, or keep it cool with a fitted black tank and black ankle boots.
What to wear with cargos
Trainers are always a great styling option when it comes to cargo pants, particularly more casual styles with cuffed hem or drawstring waist detail. Darker colours like black, navy and denim or coated denim cargos can easily be dressed up for evening wear and look sleek with a heel and silk blouse.
How to style cargos in summer
For warm days, pair a relaxed lightweight cargo trouser with a classic white tank top and simple white trainers. Alternatively, opt for a loose white shirt tucked in and style with a tan sandal. Mix things up with a floral print blouse, neutral cargos and flats for an easy summer look.
How to style cargo pants in winter
For a chic winter outfit with cargo trousers, pair denim cargo jeans or black cargo trousers with a cosy cashmere knit in a muted blue or green shade. Top it off with a snug puffer coat that's stylish and functional for casual days. Complete the look with a warm winter boot and cashmere scarf.
Styling cargos: FAQs
What are cargos made of?
It depends entirely on the style and brand, most will be made of cotton with some percentage of stretch. Others will be made of sustainable fabrics like Lyocell™ or Rayon.
Are cargos the same as parachute trousers?
A parachute trouser gives a slightly different look to a cargo, though they have a similar utilitarian feel. Parachute trousers have cuffed ankles but have enough fabric on the leg to create an almost 'puffy' silhouette. Though a cargo trouser will sometimes be cuffed at the ankle, they don't have the same voluminous look to them.
Should cargos be low rise?
Cargos can be low, mid or high rise depending on the style and brand.
Can you wear cargos high-waisted?
Yes, cargo trousers come in different rises.
Are cargos supposed to be baggy?
Cargos come in different shapes and silhouettes. For example, Paige’s Carly Cargo has a wide, ankle length silhouette, whilst Citizens of Humanity’s Leah has a closer-fitting look.
Can you wear cargos to work?
It depends on your workplace's dress code. In a more relaxed environment, a smart dark wash denim or black cargo can be styled smartly with a white shirt and loafer.